
i 



1 



7 



A BRAnA 



IN nVC AGTS 



7 



JOHN A BCDCt) 



^ 



..PAX TECUM 



Dramatis Personae. 



1 Servius, Governor of Syria. 

2 Julia, his daughter. 

3 Kalistos, a Syrian Prince. 

4 Lucius, a Roman Centurion 

5 Nikon, a B man general. 

6 NiziA, Julia's maid. 

7 Niger, Servius' factotum. 

8 QuiNTUS, a Roman soldier. 

9 QuADRATUS, a Roman 

soldier. 

10 Vitus, a Roman soldier. 

11 SiMPLicius, a Roman plebian 

12 LucuLLUS, page to Servius. 

13 Zenos, heathen high priest. 



14 Paternus, 

15 Palladius, 

16 Marcarius, 

17 Titus, 



18 Marcellus 

19 Gabinus, , 

20 quirinus, ) 



leaders 

of mob. 

wrestlers 
in mob. 

f gamblers 

in mob. 



21 Claudia, 

22 Vera, 

23 Sophia, 

24 Oliva, 

25 AlDNA, 
"^6 JUSTA, 



I dancers 
i and 
y singers 
' • in 

mob. 



Soldiers, two priests, civilians (male and female.) 



j&^ 



THE LttJRAf^VOF 


CONGRESS. 


Two Copies Received 


SEP 10 1903 j 


copyright Entry 1 


^^. <t. no-i- 


CUSS ^ XXc. No 


;i72^ 


COPY B. 



Copyrigtited DecettiDer 1902, 

Dy 

JOHN A. BEDEL, 

Belleville, 111. 



Ht\eft-e«HbcMii 



PMINT, ■ILLIVIl.LI, ILL. 



PAX TECUM 



ACT I.— SCENE I. 
(Quintus, Quadratus, Vitus and Simplicius on street near circus.) 

QUINTUS— Well, sure enough, here comes my old friend, Nikon. I 

greet you most cordially. 
NIKON— May the stars never lose their luster for you and lead you 

to fame. What good news have you to report? 
SIMPLICIUS— Another accident. Pity I was not around when the 

gods were selecting their material for a new emperor! 
VITUS — Hold your tongue, you simpleton! 
QUINTUS— Have you not heard that Eome has a new emperor; 

whose throne and crown came to him quite unexpectedly? 
QUADEATUS— As is often the case nowadays, when one emperor 

succeeds another in rapid, unexpected manner. He who was a 

soldier yesterday, becomes emperor to-day. 
SnrPLICIUS— Perhaps I will be to-morrow. 
NIKON— Tell me how this all happened. 
QITNTUS — You know our legions stationed along the lower Danube 

have nevor felt kindly toward our late emperor, Phillip the Ara- 
bian, and recently arose in open rebellion against him. To quell 

the disturbance he sent Pecius the — 
RIMPTICTUS— Hurrah, for Decius! 

VITUS — Hush UP there, vou fool. (Kicks at Simplicius.") 
OTTTNTUS; — Well, he sent Decius. an intelligent, energetic officer 

thither — Ho^'^r^ fty^plapofk from circus) 

STMPTJCTUS — TlT'T-rah (dnncins- about") they must be bavins' a good 
time in therp. Wonder what Christian dog they now are skinning? 



QUINTUS — The excited legions gave willing ear to Decius, but 
forced him to declare himself emperor and to lead them against 
Phillip. Near Verona the battle took place between the two 
armies. Decius conquered and entered Rome as emperor. Now 
a cheer for the new emperor. 

ALL — Vivat Decius, Imperator! (Nikon silent.) 

(Simplicius continues vivat, etc., until chocked by Vitus, who says) 

VITUS— Will you close your trap, or I'll— 

NIKON — You all seem to think highly of Decius. Do you know him 
so well as not to doubt that perhaps ere long you with others may 
not do as the legions of Phillip along the Danube did? 

SIMPLICIUS — Hah! then we'll have some more celebrating, more — 

VITUS — By the gods, I'll exterminate you if — 

QUINTUS — Know him? Ah! my dear Nikon, besides the science of 
warfare, he possesses m.ost admirable traits of mind and heart- — 

QUADRATUS — And foes from within and without shall fear him, 
and our gods shall smile benignantly upon his reign, which is in- 
separately consecrated to their worship. 

VITUS — Especially this rabble called Christians will be rooted out as 
a dangerous novelty, a menace to the state. 

SnTPTJCUS— rspits in handle) Oh! let me at 'em! 

NIKON — But tell me, Onintns, does DeHus and others, who think 
as he, ever take time and trouble to know Christianity in its teach- 
ings and practices? T fail to understand how a measly handfnl of 
weak men and women can be a faetor worth consideration. 

QUINTUS — What! Nikon, you do not know that this «cnm of 
humanity plot in obsoure, secret nlaces against not only the em- 
pire, but aarainst our temples and gods? 

QUADRATUS— And do you not know that thev butcher children in 
their meetings, eat the flesh thereof, and with blood-soaked hands 
vow ruin and devastation to us all! 

VITUS — And that they corrupt our warriors by their treasonable 
teachings, "that if one smite yon on one eheek, reach him the 
other," and "that one must love his enemies"— 

SIKPTJCTUS— And that one must not enjoy Bachus and Venus! 
Hah! if we cannot enjoy these in greatest freedom, we are un- 



^5— 

worthy of our gods and become like unto those rata, despised by 
the intelligence and manhood of the whole world. 

VITUS — Listen, Who would have sought a philosopher in Simplicius 'i 
Well done. Simplex! 

NIKON — Will Decius follow in the footsteps of his predecessors by 
wiping out this secretive sect? 

QUINTUS — Will he? Decius is a Roman of the old school, on which 
account alone, a sworn enemy of that rabble. He has promulgat- 
ed the most stringent and just decrees against them and has or- 
dered the edicts carried out with unsparing severity. The blood 
of these traitors is flowing in all countries of the Roman do- 
minion. 

QUADRATUS — Soon our gods will be propitiated and we be freed 
from care about these traitors. (Loud hurrahs from circus.) 

SIMPLICIUS— I can't stand it any longer; I must away to the cir- 
cus. (Exit.) 

NIKON — My long absence from Rome has caused me to lose trace 
of events. Who are the "novi homines," that is, the new men 
whom Decius has called to assist in the management of the af- 
fairs of the state? 

QUINTUS — With Decius came the day for the Romans of the old 
school, the grave, proud, sensitive old Romans. Among these is 
Servius Theron, whom Decius has already honored during the 
grand festivities consequent upon the emperor's entrance into 
Rome. 

QUADRATUS— But, Quintus, Servius is no Roman! 

QUINTUS — By birth he is a Grecian, but his ancestors have lived for 
centuries as full-fledged citizens in Rome. They had often dis- 
tinguished themselves in times of peace and war, and belonged to 
the elite families. The sire of the Therons is this Servius. A son, 
Marius, to whom Servius was much attached, than whom no 
nobler youth lived in all Rome, followed in death his mother re- 
cently. An only sister, the pretty and divine Julia, was left to 
mourn his loss with her father. 

NIKON — ^Are there no other members of this interesting family? 



— 6— 

Tell me all about them, since Servius has been so signally honor- 
ed by Decius. 
QUINTUS — Besides the numerous slaves, only two others I would 
mention, Nizia and Niger, because of their interest in the divine 
Julia. Nizia is as a sister to Julia, whose every want she antici- 
pates and dries the tears of sorrow with a loving embrace. Niger 
is, as we Latins say, Servius' factotum; that means, a man who 
can do anything and knows all; who can devise ways and means 
for all; whom one cannot spare; in short, the most indispensable 
piece of furniture. He had been purchased a slave by the father 
of Servius, but later on had been liberated after his faithfulness, 
prudence and intelligence had been proved. Yea, even more, he 
has been honored with the esteem and confidence of Servius, and 
is treated as a member of the family, from whom no secret is 
withheld. He is attached to Servius with unchangeable devotion. 
One weakness, however, the old, good Niger possesses, a remark- 
able weakness toward Julia. He knows her from infancy; for 
how often had he not carried- the little girl in his arms? Jiilia 
hangs to him in childish love. Niger is to her something like a 
mother since she has lost her mother. She calls him little papa, 
and to him she is his little darling. 

NIKON — Is Servius still in Eome? (Loud hurrahs from circus.) 

QUINTUS — Perhaps Quadratus knows this better than I? 

QUADEATUS — Shortly after the imperial- festivities, Servius with 
his daughter left for his country seat near Antium. There he 
owns a beautiful villa away up on a promontory with a marvelous 
view out upon the Mediterraean, and with vast, magnificent gar- 
dens extending far inland. The villa is called Terpnon, after a 
Grecian word which means "bliss," "the seat of bliss." The name 
is very well, very happily chosen. 

NIKON — Happy they must be in Terpnon. Yet to me the word has 
a melancholy sound ; so strangely pathetic, that I feel impending 
disaster to them, 

QUADRATUS— How so? We spoke ill of no one? 

NIKON— True, except of that so-calledi hated tribe of Christians. 

QUADRATUS — You are not one of them. How can this effect you ? 



"7— 

XIKON — Be that as it may. But — let us be gone; here comes the 
crowd from the circus, and it will be rather unpleasant to meet 
with it. (.All exit as crowd surges in from opposite side.) 

THE MOB. 

(Boisterous, talking, laughing. Paternus in lead, Palladius in middle 
of line. Arriving at statue.) 

PALLADIUS — Salve, Caesar, gloriosus! 

ALL — Salve, Salve, Salve, Caesar! 

BATEKNUS — And down with the Christian dogs! 

ALL — To the beasts, to the lions with them all! (Mingle and talk; 
Marcellus, Uabinus and Quirinus aside at dice; Simplicius imi- 
tates pose of Caesar at off side of statue, is detected by Paternus, 
who cries out) 

PATEKNUS — Hail, new-born Caesar! (All point at Simplicius and 
laugh. Dancing and singing girls in rear; mob parts to sideft, 
leaving avenue and applaud them. !Near close of dance Marcarius 
and Titus get to wrestling.) 

PALLADIUS — Look, look, here! (All surround wrestlers.) 

QUIKIKUS— I'll bet on Marcarius. 

GABINUS — And I'll put my drachmas on Titus. 

MARCELLUS— And I'll bet you both lose. 

PATERNUS — Come, come, people, give 'em room. 

QUIRINUS— Down with him, Marcarius ! 

GABINUS— Hold him level, Titus! 

MARCELLUS— Oh, fudge! they can't wrestle. 

PALLADIUS— There goes Marcarius. 

PATERNUS— Bully for you, Titus! good boy! Come on boys I 
(Crowd moves off slowly.) 

GABINUS — (To Quirinus) Gimme my money,youlost. 

QUIRINUS— Ah! go away, you're talking frog. 

SIMPLICIUS— (Holding Gabinus back.) That was a bully time we 
had in the circus. How those Christians did squirm and pray to 
their God. Still they are not afraid to die — even that little lad, 
Prancratius, did not fear the royal panther. Why— I'd get out, 



— a — 

for a living coward can always have more fun than a dead hero. 
But — let's catch up with them. (Curtain.) 

ACT I.— SCENE 2.— Garden in Terpnon. 

JULIA — (Pleasantly.) Ah, dear father, you have- called me to the 
most beautiful spot in Terpnon — Shallowed by sweet memories of 
our dear departed ones. Here their favorite spot, upon the 
most extreme point projecting into the sea — shaded and roofed by 
stately oaks, did we spend so many evening hours in viewing and 
enjoying. Well do I remember the last time. The sun was sink- 
ing toward evening in the west, the sky was resplendent in purest 
azure and the dying embers of day scattered their reddish hues up- 
on the whole landscape. Far, far below, the sea murmured deeply 
as the billows dashed upon the frowning cliff. But, father, you do 
not speak — do you not enjoy this lovely spot? 

SERVIUS — (Lost in deep, gloomy thought, moves slightly.) 

JULIA — (Aside) I surmise what is coming and will not deceive my- 
self. (Seats herself near her father and remains silent.) 

SERVIUS— (Suddenly) Do you know Lucius? 

JULIA — Well, why should I not, father. He was no infrequent guest 
as long as my brother, our good Marius, was yet alive; they were 
such fast friends. 

SERVIUS — (After a pause) Do you love Lucius? 

JULIA — (Deeply moved, sighs and finally weeps.) 

SERVIUS — (Long pause) Yes, you do love Lucius. I know it — know 
it alas ! 

JULIA — (Painfully) But, dear father, how can you say alas? Is not 
Lucius the best young Roman ? Name me one who possesses more 
accomplishments than he? Did you not yourself often remark, 
when our Marius was yet living, that Rome did not contain an- 
other two young men like these two friends? — 

SERVIUS— That is true. 

JULIA — (Suave, but convincing) Yes, it is true. Lucius is a model 
of modesty and good manners — and, at the same time, a man of 
energy and perseverance, as a true Roman should be. 



— 9— 

SERVIUS— That, too, is true. But nevertheless— 
JULIA — He has as much heart as intelligence. Yes, I love Lucius. 
You, with your clearsightedness, must surely have observed how 
this mutual endearment for years took place, since Lucius came so 
often to our house. How can you then, father, say that I, alas, 
love Lucius ? 
SEE-VnJS — Listen, Julia ; a little over four weeks ago Lucius came to 
me and asked me for your hand — 

JULIA — (Interrupting) Lucius came to you and solicited — 

SERVIUS — Yes, he solicited your hand and I dismissed him — not 
without any hope at all, however. 

JULIA — (Reaching for Servius' hand to kiss it) Oh! I thank you, 
dear father. 

SERVIUS — (Pulls hand away) But see, Julia, since then many things 
have changed. The new emperor has honored nae; has shown me 
favors, and will do still more. With Decius our party has attained 
power, to which by right power belongs ; the party of the old, true 
genuine Romans. Lucius is no genuine old Roman. I owe it, 
however, to my position — ' 

JULIA — Oh, father, I thought you knew Lucius better. He loves 
progress, that is true. He loves the new if it be good, but only 
then. In all things else he, like yourself, is attached to the old, 
good Roman times. Be not angry, father, if I tell you that that is 
not the reason why Lucius is no longer as formerly — 

SERVIUS — But one reason it surely is. 

JULIA — Tell me, dear father, frankly, why Lucius is no longer — 

SERVIUS — I'll frankly tell you, child. Lucius is too common for you. 

JULIA — (Tries to enter protest, but Servius continues.) 

SERVIUS — Lucius is in the main all right and good, but a genuine 
old Roman he is not. He has too much heart, is too soft, too — ^how 
shall I term it — too sentimental. The genuine old Roman i? made 
of more solid stuff, not so soft and weak-hearted. Besides, Lucius 
is a knight, a knight without a name, without renown, and, also, 
without — wealth. 

JULIA — (Tries again to speak.) 

SERVIUS — (Motioning silence with hand) Let me finish. I have an- 



— iu— 

other important matter to tell you. The emperor has appointed 
me Governor of Syria. This is an extraordinary distinction, 
which imposes upon me great duties and obligations. In two, at 
the most, in three weeks we shall leave Kome and. move to Antioch, 
the capital of Syria. Now, since death has robbed me of all others, 
judge for yourself, child. In you, all hopes of my race^ of my 
family a»re centered. I cannot permit tiiat a poor young man be- 
comes by son-in-law. 

JULIA— (Weeping.) 

SERVIUS — (Coldly) Julia, you should not weep. It is an old lioman 
custom that the father finds the daughter a husband of his own 
choice, and not that the daughter choose for herself. You will, 
Julia, adapt yourself to this good, old custom. 

JULIA — Certainly, father, I know that this is my duty. I cannot helo 
it, that the parting from — (breaks down with emotion.) 

SERVIUS — (Curtly) Lucius knows how the matter stands. You willj 
never see him again and he wiH not wish to see you again. (Aris- 
ing.) After our affairs here are settled, we will return to Kome 
and then journey to Syria. Fear not, I shall find a husband for 
you. (Exit.) 

JULIA — (Alone) Ah! poor me! My heart speaks to me of duty and 
love. Duty demands a sacrifice of myself, which is painful at all 
times; love tells me that we were from infancy destined for one 
another. Cruel fate, that instilled into our young hearts not the 
crackling flames of passion, but a quiet, pure, innocent attach- 
ment — real love. Alas ! poor departed mother, look down from the 
Terpnon of the gods upon your lonely child, and give me strength 
to bear the heavy burden imposed upon my youthful shoulders. 
(Nizia enters, Julia advances to meet her.) 

JULIA — My dear Nizia, you come just in time to speak to my poor, 
crushed heart. Oh ! the pain of giving up my dear Lucius forever, 
forever. 

NIZIA — Be not distressed, my dear mistress. The path of true love 
never runs smooth, and he will surely return to you. 

JULIA — You misunderstand me. Lucius has not deserted me, but the 
gods have decreed, by the will of a cruel father, (shocked by the 



—11— 

expression) forgive me, Nizia, this breach— I wanted to say by the 
call of duty I owe my father, that I must never see him again, but 
that my father shall find me another one more in accord with our 
new station in life. 

NIZIA— I am surprised at the turn of affairs, and may I ask what you 
mean by "our new station in life" in order to assist you with my 
advice and abilities? 

JULIA~The emperor has shown my father great favor by appointing 
him Governor of Syria, to whose capital, Antioch, we are to jour- 
ney within the next two or three weeks. 

NIZIA— This, indeed, is happy news. I congratulate you, Julia, in 
becoming the first lady in Syria. I know you will like your new 
home. 

JULIA— You have been to Antioch; tell me all about it. 

NIZIA— Antioch, the capital of Syria, is not as large and noisy as 
Kome, but is nevertheless, by virtue of its beauty and size, a royal 
city. Therefore, several emperors have chosen it for their army 
headquarters of the eastern department. To this may be added 
the marvelously beautiful, fruitful plains, in which the city un- 
folds its attractiveness. In short, one can easily live there, who 
has been spoiled by the enjoyments of Rome. You will gradually 
accustom yourself to the new condition of affairs and be happy. 
The pain caused by the separation from Lucius will soon cease, 
for you shall command over the hearts and hopes of the royal 
youths- of Syria. 

JULIA — Ah ! dear Nizia, little do you know m.y heart. Let us away to 
the task of preparing for our departure. To you, however, I en- 
trust my last farewell to Lucius. Tell him death alone can sepa- 
rate our hearts — distance, never. (Both exit.) 

ACT IL— SCENE 1.— Governors Palace in Antioch. 

NIGER — (Soliloquising) We have now been domiciled in Antioch 
these many moons, and whilst engaged with matters of state, Ju- 
lia's future has caused, the governor no little concern. All the 



—12— 

notables have called since our advent,^ which "fact has given him 
ample opportunity to muster them, and I fear the choice will be 
no easy t^sk. True, the fewest are of Syrian origin; mostly imi- 
grants from other countries of the Roman empire, notably from 
Greece. Some, the descendants of the royal families, who ruled 
Syria before Rome annexed their country. Therefore the many 
Grecian names and peogle of noble ancestry we" meet here. Ac- 
cording to the good old Roman usage, Julia has^ however, only in 
a perfunctory manner met them, simply to pay her respects to 
them. 

SERVIUS — Just the one I want to see. I have arranged for a num- 
ber of notables to dine with us to-day. Among them is Kalistos, a 
prince of Syria, upon whom I look with special favor. 

LUCULLUS — (Bows low) My lord, a soldier desires admission. 

SERVIUS— Show him in. (Exit Lucullus.) 

LUCIUS — (Servius and Niger startle.) The gods protect you, my 
lord. 

SERVIUS — (Sternly) What brings you to me, sir? 

LUCIUS — The journey from Rome has been a long one; yet at its 
end I beheld the star of hope beckoning me, which fact did not al- 
low me to feel fatigue and told me that I should find here grace in 
your eyes, noble sir. 

SERVIUS — I do not understand you, young man. 

LUCIUS — I come, sir, to renew my request for the hand of your 
daughter, Julia. 

SERVIUS — (Arising angrily) What I have told you about this mat- 
ter in Rome, applies equally well here in Antioch ; do you under- 
stand ? 

LUCIUS — I do, sir. Yet what is worth having is worth the effort. I 
have loved Julia from infancy, when we, with good Marius, gam- 
boled upon the turf of Terpnon, and I have reason to believe that 
my love is reciprocated by Julia. 

SERVIUS — And were this a thousand times so, / would say no, abso- 
lutely no. It is not a surprise to me, but a degree of impudence 
approaching an insult, that you dare to come into my presence 
with a request already disposed of long ago. You may go. 



—13— 

LUCIUS — I shall go, sir. The alternative of my visit is alone left me. 
From here I shall join the army of the emperor now in the field 
against the Persians, there to meet an honorable death in defense 
of the empire and thus commend even your respect, although un- 
willing. 

SEEVIUS — I shall have no more of this insolence. Be gonj), or I 
shall call the slaves to enforce my command. 

LUCIUS — (Stares at Servius awhile, then exits.) 

SEEVIUS— (To Niger.) That's what such insolent chaps deserve. I 
now am happily freed of him. The idea, die in battle! He is an- 
other one of those weak-hearted buttersouls so common nowadays. 
They take big mouthsful and still despair at every trifle and en- 
tertain in vain a desire to die. Bah ! we shall see that that melan- 
choly youth will not have courage enough to go to war, much less 
to seek death. 

NIGEE — Calm yourself, my lord. Should he live or die, you have 
nothing to fear except — ^per chance, he finds extraordinary favor 
in the eyes of the emperor. 

SEEVIUS — Come what may, with him I have done. But you will not 
forget to be present in the anti-chamber when the nobles arrive, 
and will tell me of your observations. (Exit.) 

NIGEE — Methinks he shall be hard to please. Lucius is gone, whether 
to return or not is the question. Life has surprises, that bring 
evil oftener than good; sorrow "oftener than joy. I, too, shall go. 
(Exit.) 

NIZIA — (Eushing in and looking about) Where is Julia? I must find 
her. Oh! where can she be? Julia! oh, Julia! 

JULIA — (Enters quietly.) 

NIZIA — Oh, Julia, a messenger from Eome! A Eoman has arrived. 
Guess who he is ? 

JLTLIA— (Calmly) Perhaps, Lucius? 

NIZIA — Exactly, it is Lucius. 

JULIA — How, and whence do you get your information? 

NIZIA — I saw him enter the palace a short while ago. Do you wish 
to see him? to speak to him? 

JULIA — (Pausing) No; I must not. I know that my father would 



—14^ 

never permit it. What can be the object of his coming here ? 

XIZIA — Most certainly to ask again for your hand. He evidently 
hopes to succeed better here than in Home. 

JULIx\ — Fruitless, vain hope! But, Nizia, I wish to speak to yon 
about another matter. Father has told me there will be a grand 
reception here this evening. The noblest Syrians are to dine with 
us. He desires that I shall be presented to each in turn, but T 
would so much rather remain in seclusion, 

NTZIA — You will surely not disappoint your father? 

.TTJLTA — He has cautioned m.e to pay esmr^Hal attention to one, who 
will sit on a cushion to mv right; tall, dignified and noble in his 
bearing, with jet black hair and pleasant mi on. He is 'a descen- 
dant of the old families of the Syrinn kinsrs. T am to greet him 
as friendly as possible, for he, father Sfiys, deserves it. Whom 
can he mean? 

"NTTZTA — T do not know. Your father's^ wish has, however, alw^iys 
been command to you and you will also do now as he wishes, 
not so? 

.Trnr^TA — T shall fvY. Now go, Nizia, arrnno-e for mv toilet and mean- 
while send ISTiger to me. CExit Nizia.) Mulia alone.) Fruitless, 
vain hone! Poor Lucius, that he does not know my father better. 
Th<^re is less prospect for him now than ever, in short, no nrosnect 
at all. T know it, alas, onlv too well. fSits d'own, drops head on 
arms on table nnd awaits Niger.') 

NIGER — (Enters slowly, views Julia for a moment) May the gods 
crown you, my darling. 

TTJLTA — (Rising, meets Niger, conducts him to sofa and seats herself 
on stool) Little papa, I have something — that is — T would like to 
and should know something. 

XTGFR— Well, Dolly, what is it? Tf T iny^olf orJy know what you 
de'^ire to know. 

TITLTA — (Interrupting) Lucius is here in Antioch? 

NIGER— (Shrugs shoulders) Ts it so? (Looks about.) Well, T shall 
tell you all, but under seal of the strictest secrecy. Yes, Lnoi.us 
vas here. 

TTJLTA — (Hurriedly) And is no longer? 



—15— 

NIGER — Xo, he is no longer in Antiocli, 

JULIA — What was his mission here? 

NIGEE — That is evident. He made another effort to obtain your 

hand from your father. 
JULIA — And what hope did my father hold out to him? 
NIGER — This second effort of Lucius did not di?:pose your father 

more favorably; on the contrary, embittered him entirely. His 

refusal wa.« accordinfrlv the harshest, most positive immaginable. 
JTHjIA — (Quietly) What did Lucius reply? 
NIGER — Ah! what Lucius said knocked the bottom out of the cask 

altogether. He said his only altern'ative was to join the army In 

the field and seek a e^lorious death in its ranks. 
JUTJA — rShuddprin??) Rut what import lies in these words? 
NIGER — YoMr father construed them in a peculiar manner. He 

thought Lucius was' one of those loud'-mouthed hrairs, who have 

not courage enough to sro to war and — 
JULIA — CWarmly) Ar)d I tell you, Lucius will be a? p-ood as his 

wo^d. He is no brasrgard and no weakling. T am only sorry that 

father knows Lucius so little, so — ^not at all. 
NIGER — Hid he know him ever so well, all would still be 'v vain, 

diear r-biid. ('Arisirio-.') Keep your own counsel, however. Ho not 

have it annear, esDepially to your father, that yr>M know anvthing. 
JUTJA — Eear not. T shall respect your confidence. ^Exit both.) 

ACT II.— SCENE 2.— Governor's Garden. 

SERVIUS— (Reading roll.) (Guards drag in Simplicius.) 

FIRST GUARD — My lord, we have found this chap prowling about 
the gardens in a suspicious manner — 

SECOND GUARD — And upon questioning him, he failed to give us 
anv satisfactory explanation of his presence and conduct. 

SERVIUS— Who are you? 

SIMPLICIUS — The s-ods be my witness. I am a true, genuine Ro- 
man of the old school. 

SERVIUS — WTio has remained in obscurity so long as to have faded 
into insignificance. 



—16— 

SIMPLICIUS — You wrong me, sir; I have always been found in the 

front rank when — 
SEEVIUS — When the emperors provided gala days and plenty to fill 
the stomach. What are you doing here ? 

SIMPLICIUS — I have come to pay my respects to the divine Servius ; 
him, whom our glorious eniperor, Decius, has sio highly honored!, 
and to place myself at his service in the management of the af- 
fairs of his exalted position. 

SERVIUS— Ah! a statesman, indeed! We'], wp shall try to avail 
ourselves of your intelligence by apr>oinfir>or yo-'i to the high and 
exalted position of stable sweep. It shall never be s'aid of Servius 
that he ever turned down a genuine old Roman. 

SIMPLICIUS — (Bows in thanks and, turning to leave, runs into 
Quintus.) 

QUINTUS — The greetings of the emperor ! 

SIMPLICIUS— (Finally recognizing Quintus) Well, well, I'll be 
quartered, if it ain't my old friend Quintus! How have you fared 
since we — 

QUINTUS — (Evasively) This is no time and place to — 

SIMPLICIUS— You can't shake me off in this way f or— 

QUINTUS — Hold your tongue, or I shall ask the governor's pro- 
tection. 

SIMPLICIUS — What! I, who am now enrolled among the dignitaries 
of the governor's household! 

SERVIUS — Which fact does not permit you to interrupt the mes- 
senger of the emperor. 

SIMPLICIUS— (Bowing) Ah ! so, yes, yes, but— 

SERVIUS — No other but, but silence. (Simplicius bows and puts 
hand over mouth.) 

SERVIUS— (To Quintus.) What news do you bring? 

QUINTUS — I have just returned from the campaign against the 
Persians — 

SERVIUS — A glorious victory it seems to have been, 'and Decius sav- 
ed from harm. Tell me all about it. 

QL^INTUS — As you know, the emperor in person led the Roman 
legions against the hosts of the Persians. The decisiive battle 



— ir— 

was fought upon the plateau between the rivers Euphrates and 
Tigris. The emperor, carried onward by an impetuous war spirit, 
got himself into great personal danger. With many of his faith- 
ful ones, he forced the enemy's lines in order to reach the Persian 
king himself. With eyes intently bent forward, he did not ob- 
serve that many of his guard fell upon the bloody trail and that 
the group was steadily getting smaller. This state of affairs did 
not escape the eyes of the -Persian king, and he endeavored to cut 
the emperor off from his army. In this perilous crisis, a Roman 
centurion rapidly formed a squad of daring braves, charged like a 
ferocious tiger the enmy's hosts and cut his lord free. This also 
decided the battle. The Romans achieved a glorious victory and 
Decius remained unscathed. 
SIMPLICIUS— (Quickly) That's what he did, and— 
SERVITJS — (Angrily) Silence, I say. Guards! remove this simpleton. 
SIMPLICIUS— (Bows and is dragged off.) 
SERVIUS — But what became of the brave centurion? 
QUINTUS — ^^The centurion, to whom the emperor owes his life and 
victory, fell in the turmoil beneath the strokes of his opponents. 
SERVIIJS — Was his nam.e ascertained? 
QITINTUS — As far as I could ascertain this fearless, noble knight 

was called Lucius. 
SERYIUS— Lucius, the son of Potinus? 
QUINTU'S — So I understood. You seem to know him? 
SERVIL^S — I am slightly acquainted with him. This will do for the 

present. (Waves Quintus to go.) 
SERVIITS— riMeditating) At last, T shall no longer have to bear his 
inopportunities. Dead — and soon will be forgotten. And Julia? 
— now, that Lucius is out of the way, shall marry one, by whom I 
shall rise to greater power, greater honors and fame — ^perhaps, 
who knows, to the throne of the emperor. Still a noble youth was 
he, of whom any father might feel proud; yet his fame, his re- 
nown and other good qualities of mind and body now lie buried 
with his ashes. 
LFCULLUS— My lord. 
SERVmS-'What have you, young man? 



—18— 

LTTCtlLLFS — A courier has just arrived with this message from his 
majesty, the emperor. 

SERVIUS — (Motions page out and reads) "To the Lord Governor of 
Syria — Greeting: You have heen informed of the glorious vic- 
tory that crowned our arms and the valor shown hy our brave cen- 
turion, Lucius, which carried him to sacrifice himself for our 
august person. By my order, the field of action has been searched 
in vain for his body. Since we cannot reward the living, it is our 
earnest desire to bestow the highest possible honors to the memory 
of the departed hero, thus proclaiming to the whole world our 
thanks. T, therefore, decree that in all large cities of the empire 
the most brilliant and pompous funeral festivities shall be ar- 
ranged. Our special desire is, that'Antioch shall not remain be- 
hind in honoring the distinguished hero, to whom we are greatly 
indebted. 'So ordered by us, Decius, Imperator." 
(Soliloquy) The irony of fate that decrees than I shall lead the 
festivities in honor of one, whom only a few short moons ago, I 
termed a weakling and foolish braggard. Still ray heart rejoices. 
that he no longer shall be able to renew his petition for the hand 
of Julia. She will feel acute pain and sorrow over his 'death, but 
she will also be filled with admiration and T^ide, that Lucius has 
proved himself in strife and death agonv as she had predicted. 
Thus death levels all things, balances all accounts. Kings for 
parre.) Tell Julia to come here. (Page exit..) 

SEE V J US — I shall leave her in blissful ignorance as to the fate of 
T^ucius. 

JTTLTA — (Enters and seats herself near her father.) 

SEHVIUS — How did "RTalistoc suit you yesterday? 

JTJTJA— (Surprised) Who is Kalistos? 

SERVlUS — ^Pshaw! T forrrot to mention his name to you. "Kalisto.s 
is the descendant of \hn old dvnasty — whom you, as T wished, 
greeted so plea sap tly at the reception. You played your part very 
well — kind, but dismified nnd somewhat retirins-. as the fsnod old 
"Roman custom demands. T was much pleased with you and "Kalis- 
tos, also. How did he suit you? 

JTI|tJ^— Very well. (\^ Ur aft I saw, but | renlly did not »©^ l^iw- T 



—19— 



/ 

■ only know that his language was very intelligent, decisive and, at 

m the same time, modest and suave. 

I SEEVIUS— (With emphasis) I am glad, very glad, for Kalistos shall 
f he your hushand. 

JULIA — (Deeply moved, silent and drops her head.) 
SERYIUS — It is a most honorable alliance. I really know no one 
better suited to you. Kalistos traces his ancestry from the old 
dynasty of Syria. He, too, is the heir to its treasures and wealth; 
to its possessions of lands and people. Besides, he is the best of 
man, unimpeached in manners. Detraction and calumny have 
never dared cast a shadow upon his name. Serene and earnest as 
our own good Scipio, of P.oman memory was, he is at the same 
time as pleasant and popular as that great African. Do you not 
think so? 
JUTJA — I told you, father, T paid no attention. Still it seems to me so. 
SERVIUS — I have promised Kalistos your hand. You will surely ac- 
cept such a husband as I have chosen for you ? 
JULIA — You know, father, that I will as you will and therefore ac- 
cent Kalistos since you have chosen and destined him for me. 
SERYIFS— That is the language of the daughter of a true, old Ro- 
man father andi isi all T can wish for. Happy the father of such a 
childl I shall go to Kalistos, who is waiting in the palace. Await 
here my return. (Exit.) 
JULIA — (Alone) And Lu'^ius? Poor, dear Lucius! How oft in 
fancv's dreams db we sit side by side in dear old Terpnon, where 
the birds sang so sweetly ^mid the murmurs of the deep. Where 
ynii so often crowned rne vour Ceres* and whispered sweet words 
of love. But Kalistos is mine by the will of my father, whom T 
must obev. Farewell, Lucius, farewell, forever. (Servius returns 
with Kalistos and page.) 
KAIISTOS — rRanidly coming in) Hanny am I to see you again, my 
beloved Julia (on ono knee and kisses her hand) and thrice hanny 
to hear YOU confirm by your own words the promise m.ade me by 
your father. 
"^^nLTA — My fnther's wish is. my wish. Asi a dutiful daughter J ac^ 
c£?pt you, l?!ali«tos, a@ my "hu^bsnd. 



—20— 

KALISTOS— (Takes her hand, his other on her shoulder) For you 
alone my heart shall beat, my energies shall strive, by arm up- 
lifted; in protection, my whole life be devoted . 

SERVIUS — Andi may the gods hold you in, their keeping forevermore. 
(Kalistos leads Julia out, followed! by Servius. Page remains be- 
hind, looks after them then dances about with delight and sings.) 

PAGE— (Sings.) 

NIKON — (Enters during song, stands, behind a tree. After song says) 
Do all the birds in this garden sing so sweetly as you, and may I 
ask the cause of your mirth ? 

LUCTJLLUS — Certainly, sir. Mistres© Julia has just been betrothed 
to the noble Kalistos. 

NIKON — And' pray, where is he now ? 

LTTCULLITS — He has gone to the palace. Do you wish to see him ? 

NIKON — ^Yes, my lad, I db. (Walks about awaiting Kalistop.) 

KALISTOS — Enters humming a song; seeing Nikon he rushes to 
him ; they shake.) Ah ! it is you, my diear Nikon ! 

NIKON — God bless you, Kalistos ; you seem to be in a happy mood. 

KALISTOS— Why should I not be? Surrounded by all that tends to 
make earth a veritable elesium, what can my heart desire more? 
Julia, the best , the loveliest of women, is mine and our hearts 
beat in unison to the sweetest melodies of pure love. But what 
honor Is mine that the commander visits me this diay? 

NIKON — ^You flatter me, Kalistos. Although I am inferior only to 
the governor himself, I still feel that he and I are rnc-^ ^r'^'v 
the sight of Him who governs all. True, we both work together 
for the common welfare of the empire, yet confldential relations 
cannot exist between us. You alone konw that for years the God 
of the despised Cht^istians is mv God. Him alone (h T adore. In 
His service I find greater happiness than fn all honors and title?* 
anv emperor can bestow. His command, "Render unto God, what 
belongs to God, audi to Caesar what belongs to Caesar," makes the 
ideal and real patriot, willing to risk his all.: yea, life itself in de- 
fense of his country. A good) Christian can never be a bad citizen. 
To let you, my dear Kalistos, also taste of the sweetness of my 
Ood's love, have T so often portrayed to you the beauties and hopes 



„21— 

of His teachings. A glad and willing ear you have given me; yes, 
even promised to soon enter by holy baptism, into community 
with (Jhrist. JSoon we Christians shall celebrate ii.asier, m mem- 
ory of the iSavior's resurrection, and i am moved to have you ac- 
company me on that eve to the good bishop, Dorotheus, that he 
may regenerate you by the holy waters. You have been thorough- 
ly instructed, the last doubt dispelled. You will then go with m© 
tliat your happiness be augmented, entirely completed upon the 
bosiom of Him, who loved us so much as to sacrifice himself upon 
the cross for our sins. 

KALiiSTOlS — Aiy dear Nikon, I cannot longer withstand your plead^ 
ings of love and the call of your God. I believe in Him, and con- 
fess Him as the one, true God. On the eve of Easter you will call 
to lead me to your good bishop. 

JS^IKON — (Embracing Jvalistos) Thanks' be to God. Soon shall you 
be my new brother in Christ. (Reaches his hand) Farewell, un- 
til then. 

KALISTOS — Oh, no; you shall not leave. You shall be my guest 
during the nuptial festivities. 

NIKON — Let is be so, but also let Christian moderation be our guidie 
during these days. 

KALISTOS — Allow me now to conduct you to Julia; she will be glad 
to see you. (Exit.) 

ACT III.— SCENE 1.— Governor's Palace. 

NIGER — At last the gala days are over. The funeral festivities in 
honor of Lucius were immense, and the nuptials of Julia and 
Kalistos were celebrated with unheard of splendor. Whole Anti- 
och has been swimming in an ocean of joy and pleasure, for it was 
honoring the daughter of the governor and the son of a king. The 
turmoil, however, has nearly upset me for I feel so expanded,, 
somewhat uncomfortable about the waistband and over my eyes. 
Each hair on my head has a distinct ache. I must have indnlged 
in viewing the quantity and quality of the nuptial ham\Ujt't, T^ioA 
tella us that to know ourselves is th© greatest wisdom, and Dio- 



—22— 

genus taught us the sufficiency of the absolute necessities. Still we 
prefer to know others better than ourselves and strive for luxuries 
as well as the necessities. That's why we are so much animal, so 
little man. Who comes here so hurriedly? 
SERVIUS — (Panting, trembling and confused rushes in.) 

NIGER — ^By the gods, my lord, what is the matter? You are pale, 
you are ill! 

SERVIUS— (Utmost excited) Oh! were I only! Far rather than this 
news, that crushes me. Lucius is not dead, he lives. 

NIGER — ^Lucius, the savior of the emperor ; he, who has so long been 
regarded as dead; impossible! 

SERVIUS — ^And yet it is so. This official report from Armenia says 
that Lucius fell in battle, badly wounded, from his horse and was 
thought to be dead. The Persian king hearing that there was life 
in the wounded one, had him carried from the field and tenderly 
nursed. In admiration of his bravery, he desired to keep the con- 
valescent hero at his court. Lucius declined this proferred honor, 
whereupon the king gave him his liberty and sent him to the em- 
peror, Decius, at Melitene. 

NIGER — That sounds wonderful indeed. I, however, do not find any- 
thing so horrifying in the fact that Lucius lives. On the contrary, 
that should leave you indifferent. He certainly will no longer 
solicit Julia's hand from you. 

SERVIUS — Oh, what a fool, what a fool was I ! But, who could know 
this all? Lucius is now the most powerful favorite of the em- 
peror. Were Julia now his wife, she, with Lucius, would be near 
the throne, and we with — 

NIGER — (Interrupting) But, Servius, be not angry with me if I ven- 
ture to remark that such language means to tempt the gods. Did 
Julia not contract a most honorable alliance ? Is not Kalistos of 
royal ancestry? Is he not worthy, not good? I believe that Kalis- 
tos is of far greater importance than Lucius. 

S~]RVIUS — The governor of Armenia writes me, however, that Lu- 
cius is most potent with the emperor. 

NIGER — Royal favor is a narrow and treacherous path. He who 
ascends it, falls deep. I should prefer to stand with Kalistos upon 



— 2a~ 

the solid plane of personal greatness, of independent sielf-posr 
sesision. 

SERVIUS — Lucius can annihilate me, and he will do it. I dismissed 
his suit twice; the second time in an especial insulting manner. 
1 recall his look when he left He will avenge himself. One word 
spoken to the emperor will deprive me of the governorship, of my 
possessions, of home, of honor, and of life. 

NIGER — That is ti'ue, there danger lies. But who knows, if in his 
good fortune and fame he yet remembers you or Julia. 

SERVIUS — I forgot to tell you that Lucius is on his way to Antioch 
to be present at the sacrifices in honor of the victory and the pre- 
servation of the emperor. 

NIGER — If Lucius comes to Antioch, he must have some definite 
reasons therefore. What are they? That is difficult — is impos- 
sible to solve. Let us abide the time. The past is past, and the 
future is kno^m, only to the gods. Who worries himself about the 
past and fears all which may happen in the future, has not an en- 
joyable moment. Let us wait and meanwhile you obtain all pos- 
sible information. (Slowly arising.) ' I must leave you now to 
visit my pupil Cajus. (Exit.) 

SERVIUS — (Alone in deep thought, startles when addressed by Lu- 
cullus.) 

LUCULLUS — My lord, a gentleman desires admittance. 

SERVIUS— Show him in. 

LUCIUS— I greet thee, noble sir! 

SERVIUS — (Mustering him for a time, then blurts out) Lucius! 

LUCIUS — ^Yes, it is Lucius. I readily understand that you did not 
recognize me in my change of costume. 

SERVIUS — I had received information that you were with the em- 
peror, Decius, at Melitene — 

LUCIUS — I am supposed to be there now. I am only here on your 
account, for you and perhaps for — Julia — 

SERVIUS— (Tries to speak.) 

LUCIUS — Let us be brief and frank with each other. I plead for the 
hand of Julia, your daughter. You dismissed me. You were 
right when you said I was a poor knight without a name, without 



™24— 

fame, without wealth and therefore was unworthy of Julia. You 
also thought I was only dreaming and lacked the courage of look- 
ing death squarely in the face. Death eluded me and fortune 
smiled upon me. For the third time, I now renew my prayer, my 
petition. I have remained the same person, but perhaps shall 
meet with more favor and success since I have shown that I did 
not fear death, and since the graciousness of the emperor has dis^ 
tinguished me. How do you now decidie ? 

SEEVIUS — (In a politico-trickery manner) Since the name of Lu- 
cius is the most noted after the emperor's, which the Roman 
tongue speaks, he stands too exalted for the daughter of Servius. 
He has earned far greater reward. 

LUCIUS — Did the emperor oifer me the hand of his daughter, I would 
refuse it and the emperor's favor to win Julia. I must know some- 
thing positive; therefore I could remain no longer in Melitene. 
Be brief, for to-day I must go back there, to return here again to 
be present at the sacrifices. 

SERVIUS — (Uneasy, finally blurts out) Julia is already married^ — 
these two months. 

LUCIUS — (Thunderstruck, to himself) Is already married — these two 
months. (To Servius) To whom? 

SERVIUS— To Kalistos. 

LUCIUS — To Kalistos ! Not a bad choice. Now I have nothing more 
to do here. (Bows exit.) 

SERVIUS — (Alone) Woe be to me and mine. Nothing will now stop 
the revenge of the emperor's favorite. (Curtain.) 

ACT III.— SCENE 2.— Home of Kalistos. 

(Julia seated, reading; Kalistos leaning over back of chair.) 
NIKON — The blessings of God upon you. I have come to ask you, 

Kalistos, for a walk this beautiful morning. 
JULIA — (Arising) I cannot permit you, my dear husband, to leave 

the house to-day. 
KALISTOS — May I ask you, my beloved, the reason for your decision 

and fears ? 



—26-- 

JULIA — I had an evil dream last night that portends the worst. (Ni- 
kon smiling — tries to leave them alone together.) (Julia quickly) 
Leave us not, friend Nikon ; hear also my dream, for 1 konw you, 
too, will participate in my fears. 

KALIS T OS— Well, Julia, relate what an evil dream you had. 

JULIA — I beheld Lucius in robes of purple. He looked at me serious- 
ly and intently, with penetrating eyes. He asked me where is 
your husband'^ Where is Kalistoa? At this moment the execu- 
tioners dragged you, Kalistos, forth* One of them drew his sword 
and all was over with you. My father sat upon the tribunal of 
justice, turned aside his head and wept. Then the executioners 
came toward me — but fright here shook off the dream. I awoke 
and saw nothing more. (Shuddering.) Uh! it was so cruel, so 
bloody ! Therefore, dear Kalistos, obey me ! This is a wink from 
the gods. Do not go out to-day, for on the following day a dream, 
there mysteriously weaves itself that, which will end in blood. Is 
it not so, friend Nikon; you too desire that Kalistos does not leave 
the hous^ to-day? 

NIKON— I place no faith in dreams, my lady, and fear at least noth- 
ing from the walk we intend to take; absolutely nothing. 

JULIA— I cannot permit it. I pray you, Kalistos; I implore you by 
the love you bear me; I conjure you by the gods, do not leave the 
house; you will never return alive to the arms of your loving 
wife. (Weeps.) 

NIKON— (Soothingly) My dear lad^^, compose yourself. I promise 
you upon the honor of a Eoman knight to guard your husband a8 
the apple of my eye, and place myself in bond for him. 

JULIA — Where are you going together ? 

NIKON — That, for the present, will have to remain a secret. You 
shall soon Imow all and be glad. We shall not keep yoii l(<u,u 
awaiting our return. (Exit both.) 

JULIA — (Follows them with her eyes for a time) They are gone! 
Shall I see him again? perhaps only as a mangled corpse. My 
Bould is filled with dark apprehensions; my heart stifled and 
throbbing with fear. He tempts the gods with impunity! aye, 
even his eyes sparkled in anticipation of the results of his daring. 



—26— 

Wh at does it all me&n ? I c annot f athom thi s action. 

NIZIA — What can I do for youTdear Julia 'i ^^ 

JULIA — I am so disturbed, Nizia. Nikon and Kalistos, in spite of 
my entreaties, have gone. Where 'i — is to remain a secret for the 
present. 

XIZlx4. — -Well, what signifies a walk out with 2s ikon. He is the 
noblest of men^ 

JULIA — True, still a horrid dream I had last night should forbid 
Xalistos to go out to-day. 

iS'IZlA — Bah! what hcve dreams to do with an ordlinary walk ^ What 
have they to do with any action of ours^ 

JULIA — (Astonished) You, too, do not believe in dreams'^ 

NIZIA — Assuredly not. They are simply manifestations of a dis- 
ordered stomach or other organ of our body. God alone rules the 
universe and its people. 

JULIA — Yet dreams are inspired by the godis. 

NIZIA — Only if one chooses to believe so. Julia, the hated Chris^ 
tians are not so far wrong when they teach that dreams, sorcery 
and the like are the eminations of the evil one, and that the gods 
are nothing more than imagesi in marble and bronze, without 
power^life or virtue , 
^aj Oh, Nizia, Nlzia)l 

JULIA — How like Kalistos you speak. I do not, however, understand 
you, and cannot now bother myself with such. 

NIZIA — Some day you will understand and be happy in the knowl- 
edge. 

JULIA — Let us away to the garden, there to await their return. Sure- 
ly something dreadful is going to happei.. 

NIZIA — Before going, let me sing you your favorite song. It will 
dispel your fears. (Sings.) (After the song, Kalistos and Nikon 
are heard returning.) 

JULIA — (Springing up) I hear them returning. Oh, how glad I am! 
(Nikon and Kalistos enter.) 

NIKON — See, my lady, I bring back your husband hale and hearty, 

changed in nothing by in spirit. 
KALISTOS — (Joyously) Yes, Julia, I yet live; live more than ever. 



I have been washedi and .made an heir to the glories of eternity. 
JULIA — You speak in enigmas of late and I fail to understand you. 

(Page brings note.) 
JULIA — (Heading) Nevertheless, at least a part of my horrid dream 

has been fulfilled. Lucius was here. (Continues reading.) 
NIKON — That means he will come to the festive sacrifices — 

JULIA — No, no; Niger here states he was here. He came in the 
costume of a favorite of the emperor, so that father with difiicultj^ 
recognized him. For the third time, he said, he came to claim my 
hand from father. Learning that I was alread^^ married he ab- 
ruptly left. Father now fears his vengeance upon us all. 

KALIS TO S — Fear not, my bride, all will end well and we shall live 
in peace and happiness, such as the whole world cannot give or 
take from us. We will now have to prepare for the festivities in 
honor of the victory. Many prominent officials of state and army 
will come to Antioch. 

JULIA — Father fears the worst, for he beholds in Lucius his most 
pronounced enemy, whose sole thought is to crush him. 

KALISTOS — Fear not, Lucius has a noble heart. He will not harm 
a hair on our heads. Now, however, Nikon and I would wish to 
be alone here. I shall meet you in your room shortly. (Julia and 
Nizia exit.) (To Nikon) The day set for the opening of the great 
festal sacrifices is rapidly approaching. 

NIKON — We are Christians, Kalistos; we shall remain away from 
the sacrifices. To take part therein would be idolatry. 

KALISTOS — That I should say. But will our absence be permitted? 

NIKON — Commanded even, my friend. 

KALISTOS — Is it, however, not an act of cowardice to absent our- 
selves ; not something akin to apostaey from the faith ? 

NIKON— How do you mean that, Kalistos? 

KALISTOS — I mean we must go and acknowledge Christ before the 
assembled multitude ; before the governor and before Lucius, the 
favorite of the emperoi. / shall do it. 

NIKON— It will be your death. 

KALISTOS— I know it, Nikon; death for Christ. 



A'^LKO^ — Christ does not demand that one niuat deiiver himaeii over 
to the executioner, 

XALiSTOS — The more voluntary the olieriug i^, die more meiiluii- 
ous. Have you not yourself, my teaclie^ and auide tu CiirisLian- 
ity, impressed such action upon my heart i 

NIKON — Live Kalistos. Spare your life! \ou can do a great acai 
to protect the poor Christians and help tu tcruiy them in tiieir 
faith. 

KALISTOS—Xhe example of my death, if it shall come to that, shall 
fortify them best of all. 

NIE.0^' — ^Ask yourself Xalistos, is it not foolhardine»a lo Danier the 
sword of the executioner? 

KALISTOS — You know, JS^ikon, I do not depend so much upon my 
own strength as upon divine grace. 

NIKON — But Julia and Servius will be — 

KA I.IS'i OS — "iifc, who loves father and mother, brother or sister 
more than Me is unworthy of Me," are the words of Christ . Do 
you remember, JS^ikon, how often you repeated these words to me 
during your instructions befor baptism? My dear friend, come 
with me to the sacrifices. We will tell the people that Christ is 
more than all worldly expectations, all honors, all glories, all 
wealth; more than life itself. 

NIKON — My dear Kali&tos, the full power of baptismal grace, weak- 
ened by no unfaithful act, works vigorously in you. "Alas I I have 
abused the same grace by many a sin, but my love for Christ is 
again enkindled at the warmth of your courage. Together we 
shall go to the sacrifices ; together we shall testify for Christ, like 
so many before us have done, with our confession of faith; yea, 
wdth our blood, if need be. 

KALISTOS— (Shaking hands) Resolved be it then, Nikon, we re- 
main brothers in Christ living and dying. (Curtain.) 

ACT IV.— SCENE 1.— Ampitheatre. - 

(Mob comes rushing in; boisterous; push each other in seats and 
cheer when notables appear; bugle blasts; three priests enter and 



—29— 

nobles; Nikon and soldiers, and paphagonian soldiers; bugle 
blasts; Kalistos, Lucius, Servius.) 

SERVIUS — We have assembled here to acknowledge our gratitude to 
the gods for the glorious victory of our arms over the Persians, 
and for the deliverance of our noble and virtuous emperor, Deci- 
us, from grave peril. Ever mindful of the valor of our brave sol- 
diers, let us not forget the deities, who weave mysteriously the 
destinies of the empire. Let the sacrifices proceed. 

HIGH PRIEST— (Pouring incense on coals) As a pure odor of sacri- 
fice may this incense arise to the praise of Jupiter and all the 
deities; to the glory of the divine Decius; in honor of the divine 
Roma as an acknowledgment of our thanks and of our devotion. 
(Two other priests offer. High priest hands spoon to Lucius, Ser- 
vius in turn, who offer. Then to Nikon, who declines and ascends 
the altar steps.) 

NIKON — No one can be happier than I on this day, dedicated to the 
glorification of a grand victory (applause), to the happy deliver- 
ance of our emperor from death (applause), to heroic valor. No 
one can be more grateful to God than I (loud applause). But I 
know only one God, the almighty creator of heaven and earth. 
(Mob moves.) I am a Christian, a Christian and therefore — 

MOB — (Rising) To the cross with him; to death; to the lion?: to the 
wild beasts ! 

SERVIUS — (Angrily) Do you adhere to your words? 

NIKON — (Calm and firm) I am a Christian and- remain a Christian. 

MOB— (Tumultously) To the lions with him ! (Repeatedly.) 

SERVIUS- (To Nikon's soldiers) Conduct him to prison! (They do 
no mox^e.) (To paphogonians) You attendi to him! 

KALISTOS — TRushes through, embraces Nikon and givp>^ hand in 
farewell. Priests shocked.) 

SERVIIJiS — (Restoring order oy wave of hand) Let not this vile dog 
disturb our festivities. In accordance with the imperial decree 
lately issued, I shall proceed against this rebel with unsparing 
severity. Let the sacrifice proceed. 
(High priest cautionusly advances to Kali&tos, hands him spoon, 



—30— 

but Kalistos in declining strikes it, scattering incense, and steps 

to altar.) 
KALISTOS — I am a Christian like my friend Nikon. (Mob moves; 

some rise; all murmur and stare at Servius.) 
SERYITTS — Guards, remove him. (Drops back in his seat, and 

whilst nobles offer slips out.) (After nobles have done, priests hold 

up hands and say) 
PRIESTS — Ye gods, accept this our sacrifice, ard continue to smile 

upon us evermore. (Curtain.) 

ACT IV.-^SCENE 2.— Julia's Eoom. 

JULIA — (To Nizia) Your description of the scene fills me with 
horror. Oh I my surmises ! my dream ! it is being fulfilled. Now I 
understand their secret doings. Nikon has enticed Kalistos from 
me! And he — became a Christian? — impossible! 

NIZIA— The goodness of your heart, Julia, does not permit you to 
hate anyone, not even the Christians, I am sure. 

JULIA — No, I only pity them, these poor deluded people. Their 
faith may be good enough for the poor, ignorant, the rabble, but 
how it is possible that people of rank, wealth and refinement, 
like my husband and Nikon, can fall so low as to mix with such 
people is beyond mv comprehension. Nikon ha=! plaved the traitor, 
has deceived us all and dragged down to perdition my own dear 
Kalistos. 

NIZIA — ^Ee not so harsh, Julia. When once your eyes shall have 
been opened to the true state of affairs, all will have been done 
for the best. My trust lies with the Almisrhty. 

SEEViUS — Enters abruptly and angrilv) What 1=5 this. You both 
also plottinjT ngain<=f the god's, the emperor and against me? 

»')UI>IA — Oh ^ fp+"'^er! How can you sneak thus to me? Where is my 
hu'^band? Where is Kalistos? I w,vsf see him. (Nizia slips 
r.niVtlv p^av during this.) 

SEKVIUS — The ina-rate sits in confinement. Ynn nnrnnf con l-.ii-p -, 
vou sshall not pee him until the penferioo nnon his betrnyer. Nikon. 

^hfill^hayo been o?ff^ciitod. 



—31— 

JFIJA— What Trill he done to Nikon? 

SEEVTTJS— He shall die: die hy the hande of the executioner, and. 
that, too, this very day. Upon him I shall pour out vengeance, 
and thus remove from Lucius any chance to hlacken my reputa- 
tion at the emperor's court. 

JTTT J A —And Xalistos ? 

SERVIUS — Do not mention that unsrrateful fellow to roe! Nikon, 
the hetraver, shall have -first died, then only the question arises 
what shall hp don^ with ITalistos. TTe shall, however, witness the 
pTecution of his friend, which will hring him hack to his senses. 

JTTLTA— "Rut— 

SEFVTTTS — Don't internjpt me, or contradict me. T demand that T 
>,e oheypd. After the pxecutiou of Nikon you phall visit your 
hu«hnnd. "^nur entreaties and tears, added to th^ imriressions re- 
ppivpd' at Nikon's r:?-ecution, will hrinpr him ahout. Yp-"! mav now 
Fo. fExit.) CAlone') A damnable incident is this! T><ese ohap? 
shall know thaf T am jrovernor. and will not have my plans cross- 
ed. And that Lucius, full of the hitterest sentiment? of rev,^nsre. 
will move ever lever to ruin me. To postpone the execution of 
Nikon onlv one dav would .ffive him ample pretext to sue me at 
f^K^ emperov^fs, that T (]n^ pot respect the imperial decrees asrainst 
the Christians. Besides this, the immediate h^oodv vensreance 
n£rain«t that traitor. Nikon, will surely induce "Kalistop to a re- 
nunciation of his foolish ideas. If not, then he. too. shall feel my 
nower: yea, all who d'aro resist me. and were they the last mem- 
bers of my own household. (Curtain.) 

ACT v.— SCENE 1.— The Prison. 

K-ALTi^TOS — Ah! what har^mness is mine! Roou T cliall tread the 
^'yfh that "''^d my Aof^r Nikon to the haven of jov. of eternal ve?if in 
^bvi'ist. What arp fho "•neatest ioys of this oarth when compared 
+o fho?p of eterrtity? What is honor hut a fieetinor shadow; what 
is tronlth hut filth to satisfy nassion: what i'^ heautv hut a film 
to hide fhe ashes o^ the tomh. CrWe me rather freedo?o of the 
^plfff to Boar to <*pdbB.s lio^ior^, w^plth m(\ henvity frt tlie rf^Jwi 



—32— 

of peace and everlasting joys. Alas ! only too long have I served 
the world and knew not its author. Now, having learned Him, 
my resolve is fixed. (Sings.) 

JULIA — Cruel man, who so coldblooded; yes, even smilingly, causes 
my father such acute pain, and casts me, your wife, heedlessly 
and without feeling into abject misery. 

KALISTOS — Oh ! Julia, could you only look into my soul, you would 
know that I love you; love you above everything in the world. 
That I love you above all except my God, my Christ, my Savior 
only. He, who out of compassion for us poor mortals, came down 
from heaven to rescue us from eternal death and to open for us 
the et'^mal portals of bliss and joy. Hear Julia, if a thousand 
lives were mine, each one would cheerfully be offered to bring me 
to Him; there to intercede for you, that we may live with Him in 
endless love and happiness. 

JULIA — Listen Kalistos, remain a Christian; follow your convic- 
tions. Only as long as Lucius is here in Antioch pretend as if 
you regretted having become a Christian, Then my father can, 
then will he be able to spare you, for he fears Lucius above all. 

KALISTOS — Never, never in all eternity shall I, with God's grace, 
permit myself to even feign having become unfaithful to Christ. 
In the eyes of the world that would be hypocrisy, deception and 
the worst example; in the eyes of God, a sin, a mortal sin. No, 
my beloved, let us walk the straight way, let come what will. It 
is true, my heart bleeds at the thought of leaving you behind to 
the cold mercies of a wicked world, but God will protect you and 
take you unto Himself. That your fnther's fears regarding Lu- 
cius may be proven groundless, have Liicin<3 summoned and re- 
turn yourself. (Exit Julia.) (Alone") What pain does the part- 
ing from love for love entail. Still, ba= He not said we must leave 
all for Him to be worthy of Him? And Lucius? Servius has 
naught to fear from that upright nature, a man void of selfish- 
ness and trivial desires for revenge. He loved\ Julia ardentlv 
and honestly, and cannot, yea will not, des-ire to cause her pain by 
crushing her father. 



—33— 

LUCIUS — (Eyeing Kalistos intently) You have had me called; what 
is your pleasure? 

KALISTOS — (Frankly) You know, Lucius, what brought me here. 
Like my friend, Nikon, I shall die I know, or rather I feel it. I 
die gladly for my faith. One thing, however, pains me. I leave 
Julia behind, who was entrusted to me only a short time. ago. I 
do not know how she will fare after my death. You once loved 
Julia and she loved you. When I am no more, Join your hands 
in the bonds of love and matrimony. 

LUCIUS— (Thoughtfully) You shall not die, but live. Live, Kalis- 
tos and be happy with Julia. 

Kx'VLTSTOS— I shall not live unless I deny my faith. Rather die 
tenfold than to have to reproach myself for a moment with un- 
faithfulness toward Christ. 

LUCIUS — Such you Christians are, I know it. (Dropping into si- 
lent thought) And if I wished, would Julia also wish? 

KALTSTOS— I believe so. 

LUCIUS — And what would Servius, her father, have to say to it? 
No, no, he dismissed me twice, thrice; dismissed me in disgrace. 

XALISTOS — But the circumstances are entirely different now. Let 
us S]j^ak frankly. Servius ift ambitious and stubborn. He prides 
himself upon his old "Romanism. Formerly he did not esteem you 
as you deserved. You now are great and honored before the 
whole world. Servius will consider it the greatest honor if you — 

JUTJA — (Hastens to FTalisfoR, greets Lucius with bow: weeps upon 
her husband's shouldiers."^ 

ITALTSTOS — Weep not, Julia; do not d'enress my heart in these last 
moments, for behold, T am calm, Joyful and happv. T enter eternal 
life, you remain in this cold, evil world. Here is one, who loves 
vou and can make you hfinnv. Live with Lucius. 

JULIA— fLooks surorised at Kalistos.) 

TTALTSTOiS — When I shall have died, give Lucius vour hand. 

JUTJA — ^Dignified, eyes fixed on TTalistos) I loved Lucius: he knows 
it. T loved him with the whole intensity of mv soul, but this 
f^ntire, full love T gave fn you Kalistos. Am T now unworthy of 
you? If you r.ie. you will die on Rcr«ount of this Lucius, because 



r -84- 

my father fears him. Yes, Lucius, you are the cause, of course, 
the innocent cause of Kalistos' death. It is unavoidably so, and 
therefore I declare before you, Kalistos, and before you, Lucius, 
that I shall also die rather than give my hand and love to a man, 
who in any manner whatever, even innocently, has become the 
cause of my husband^s death. Behold, Lucius, I will love you, 
love you as when a child I loved you as my brother. I cannot and 
never will, however, offer you my hand to a union of hearts. 
You are noble and magnanimous to endorse my resolve. Be more 
noble, more magnanimous and save (on knees), save this unfor- 
tunate one, my poor Kalistos. I say it and if is true, if my father 
condemns him to die, Ke does it out of fear of you. You might 
become his accuser and crush him. Be great enough to save your 
rival. 

KALTSTOS— (Smilingly raises Julia.) 

LUCniS — Go, sweet sister Julia, and tell your father he has abso- 
lutely nothing to fear from me. Tell him he must pardon Kalistos. 
Tell him I beseech him to do it. (Giving each his hand) Fare- 
well, farew^l, Kalistos and Julia, be happy. (Exit.) 

JULIA — (Falling jubilant on neck of Kalistos) Saved, saved! I go 
to get certainty from my father. I shall soon return to bring you 
the happy tidings of release. (Exit.) 

ACT v.— SCENE 2.— Governor's Koom. 

SERVIUS — (In ugly mood) I must sacrifice him. I must crush him 
or be crushed myself. Don't you think so ? 

NIGER — I don't understand whom you must crush. 

SERVnjS — Kalistos, my son-in-law. Do not interrupt me. Let me 
speak out, then judge! If I do not execute the imperial decrees 
against the Christians upon Kalistos, Lucius will report me to the 
emperor, and I am lost. I will be deprived of office and honor, of 
wealth and possessions, if not of life itself. Lucius lies in wait 
for my ruin. I would do the same myself. 

NIGER — It is said, Lucius has higher and nobler thoughts. 

SERVIUS — I told you I wanted to speak out, then you may venture 



— a5— 

your opinion. Lucius is watching for a weakness, an opening on 
my part to ruin me. If 1 execute tiie imperial dlecrees even upon 
Kalistos, as is my duty, 1 shall rise in the esteem and favor of the 
emperor. Now speak. 

NIGER — You permit me, sir, free speech and I avail myself of the 
permit. You have, sir, no proof whatever tha't Lucius *has any 
such low thoughts. ^ 

SERVIUS — To ruin an enemy, an apponent is no l^w way of think- 
ing. I do as he would do. Have you nothing else to offer. ? 

NIGEK — You promise yourself, sir, a growth in the estimation of the 
emperor by the execu'tion of Kalistos. I would not wish to ad- 
vance by steps, which are dyed crimson with the blood of a son-in- 
law and dampered with the tears of an only child. No, indeed, 
Servius. 

SERVIUS — You are right; it comes home to me, but — a true Roman 
never judges according to impulses and sentiments of the heart, 
rather according to cool intelligence and it tells me, you must. 
Law is supreme. Do I not act in conformity with the law ? Who 
can lay blame for the act at my door ? No, no, I still must sacri- 
fice this Kalistos. You may go. (Exit Niger.) (Servius walks 
the floor.) 

JULIA — Father, I have been to the prison. I saw Kalistos, who per- 
sists in adhering to his declaration of faith. 

SERVIUS— Then let the dog die-! (Julia shudders.) 

JULIA — Lucius was also there — 

SERVIUS — How well it would now be were Lucius your husband. 
Why did you accept this Kalistos? 

JULIA — (Quietly) You took Lucius away from me and gave me 
Kalistos. 

SERVIUS — Had you been more stubj|)rn. You had to live with your 
husband, not I — 

JULIA — (Softly) Father, I would not have advised myself to be stub- 
born. You told me often that, according to old Roman usage, the 
father selected a husband for his daughter, not she for herself. 
But tf> return to my words. Lucius desires me to tell you that 
yon need have no fear for him, absolutely none. He also be- 



—sa— 

seeches you to liberate my husbaiid. Permit me now, dear father, 
to bring him here that he may thank you for his life. 

SEKVIUS — Foolish one! You are only a woman and you poorly 
understand the language of politics and of the passions. 

JULIA — You still mistrust Lucius? 

SEKVIUS— That I do, more than ever. 

JULLA.— You wrong his noble, high-minded soul. It does not know 
how to deceive or to lie. . 

SERVIUS — I ought to know that better than you, 

JULLA — But Lucius asks you to pardon Kalistos. 

SEKVIUS — Yes, to set a trap for me in order to more easily accom- 
plish my ruin. 

JULIA — How often have your surmises not deceived you? 

SERVIUS — Far oftener have they saved me. 

JULIA— (Kneeling) I conjure you, confide in Lucius just this once. 

SEEVIUS — I shall not do it. Did he himself remain silent, there are 
a thousand tongues in his service to betray me. 

JULIA — (Arising, horrified) Now I understand you. Kalistos falls a 
victim to heartless politics. 

SERVIUS — You do not know the emperor. His orders are impera- 
tive. I must obey. I have studied it well. One of us both — 
Kalistos or myself. One thing, however, Julia, remains for you. 
When Kalistos is no more, then give your hand to Lucius. Then 
and only then can he be reconciled to us. 

JULIA — Never, forever never, 

SERVIUS — I shall command you to do so. 

JULIA — I shall not obey. This once I shall be stubborn. You willed 
I should be. 

SERVIUS— I shall disinherit you. 

JULIA — Do it; I would rather beg my bread from door to door. 

SERVIUS — (Pausing awhile, leaves suddenly.) 

JULIA — Father, father; you are going to execute the sentence of 
death upon Kalistos; oh, father, father (tries dopr which is lock- 
ed) the door is locked; help, help, Nizia, Niger; help, help, ohl 
yea gods, help, Niger, Niger. 

NIGER— (Opens from without.) 



—37— 

JULIA— Go, hasten, Niger; seek my father — he must come here — 
but no — stop — yes, go, go, hasten. (Rushes about and then exit.) 

SLIDE SCENE. 
(Soldiers passing with Kalistos, Julia meets them, weeping em- 
braces Kalistos.) 

KALISTOS — Farewell, Julia, my beloved, I go to Christ, and my 
first petition to Him shall be that He enlighten you and give you 
the grace of faith. (Kisses her forehead.) PAX TECUM. 
(Julia swoons and is dragged away by a soldier.) 

ACT v.— SCENE 3.— Governor's lioom. 

SERVIUS — (Alone) He is dead. My triumph over Lucius is com- 
plete. I am now the emperor's friend and shall suceed to greater 
honors. Bah ! what care I for this handtf ul of Christians. They 
do not bother me and, like Nikon, are admirable soldiers — yet, the 
emperor and his representative must furnish amusement for the 
people — the common rabble — and v;e will give them sufficiency. 

LUCIUS — (Angry) Inhuman father; heartless slave of fear and am- 
hition! ruthless man, incapable of faith in nobility of soul! Were 
you forced to murder Kalistos? Now, right now, the desire over- 
whelms m^e to crush you. Base wretch, grovelling after honors 
through the blood of the innocent; yes, feasting upon the blood 
of a son-in-law that is diluted with the tears of an only child'. 
This act seals your doom, for ere long you shall be without honors, 
wealth and home. An ignominious death alone will suffice to blot 
out the execrable memory of you — 

JULIA — (Slowly approaching) Father finish your work by bringing 
another sacrifice. Kalistos dying promised to procure for me the 
grace of faith in the one, true living God. The promise has been 
fulfilled. I am a Christian and shall remain one unto death. Con- 
cede me only enough time to receive baptism or baptise me at 
once in my own blood. Then will my du'eam have been ,f ully com- 
pleted and realized. 

LUCIUS— No, no ! Too much blood has already flown. I saw much 
of the Christians in Rome and have learnedl to esteem them. I, 



—38— 

myself, shall exert my whole influence to have this bloody work 
stopped, and^ — 

MESSENGER— (Rushes in) My lord, I bring you the horrible news 
that the Roman legions have been entirely routed in their cam- 
paign against the Goths. Decius, the emperor, with his usual im- 
petuosity, forged himself to the front of battle and fell by the 
hands of the king of the Goths. The army is fleeing in consterna- 
tion. (Exit) 

LUCIUS — Duty calls. I hasten to the scene of action to try to re- 
form the scattered) legions, even at the risk of my all. 

SERVIUS — He (pointing at Lucius) will now be emperor! All is 
lost! (Rushes out.) A cup of hemlock alone remains for me. 

LUCIUS — Farewell, Julia, my sweet sister! May your God protect 
you and if He is t^e only true one, petition Him to pour a ray of 
His light into my soul, that I too may know Him. (Kisses her 
forehead.) PAX TECUM. (Hastens out.) 

JULIA — (Alone) Is this the end of all? I stand alone — but no, the 
God of the orphan still lives — that God, my God, whom Kalistos 
purchased for me with his life's blood* What now are honors, 
wealth and beauty? Vanity of vanities, and all is vanity. My 
heart can only be satiated by eternal love; my home only in the 
realms of peace. Farewell, oh! world, with your vanities! I go 
to the good bishop Dorotheus, of whom Nizia so often spoke to 
me and with whom she now most probably is, to lay my posses- 
sions at his feet. Thus freed from all terrestrial ties, my soul 
may take its flight to God, there to enjoy with Kalistos, a glory 
which none of the princes of this world know — for, the eye hath 
not seen, nor the ear heard — neither hath it entered into the heart 
of man what things God hath prepared for them that love Him. 
(Noi;^s like wind, Julia frightens somewhat, soft music, gets 
lighter, looks about her.) What strange sounds! what beautiful 
strains! How brilliant the rays of light! What dielightful odor 
of strange blossoms. Is a messenger come from on high to summon 
me? Oh, my soul! awake to meet him. My God, my all. (Sings, 
towards close of song, on one knee. A flood of light is thrown on 
her ,and curtain drops.) , FINIS, 



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